School attendance is important every day, but especially this Wednesday, Sept. 29— student count day.

The first of two statewide student count days determines 75 percent of school funding. The second student count in February accounts for 25 percent of per-pupil funding.

Schools depend on per-pupil funding from the state and with student enrollment on the decline, every student counts. The Brandon School District receives $7,316 per student. For the last few years, the district has suffered declining enrollment, losing about 100 students per year.

This year, Superintendent Lorrie McMahon said another 100 students was projected to be lost; however, an initial and "totally unofficial" count shows a reduction of about 16 students.

With the official count Sept. 29, McMahon emphasized that it is very important students be in school and "be counted as a Brandon Blackhawk."